You need a valid government-issued ID to fly domestically in the United States

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires one form of acceptable identification to board a domestic flight. A driver's license, passport, or passport card will get you through security. If you don't have any of these, you can still fly — but the process takes longer and involves additional steps at the airport.

The ID requirement applies to all passengers 18 and older. Children under 18 do not need ID to fly domestically, though they must travel with an adult. International flights have different rules and always require a passport or passport card, regardless of age.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid driver's license, passport, or passport card satisfies TSA requirements for domestic flights.
  • If you have no government ID, you can still board by arriving early and completing a secondary verification process at security.
  • Children under 18 do not need ID for domestic flights but must travel with an adult.
  • International flights require a passport or passport card for all passengers, including children.
  • Expired IDs are not accepted, so check your expiration date before heading to the airport.

What counts as acceptable ID

The TSA accepts a narrow list of documents. A current driver's license from any U.S. state or territory works. A U.S. passport, passport card, or passport book all work. A military ID, tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, or an Enhanced Driver's License (available in some states) also work.

Your ID must not be expired. If your driver's license expired last month, it will not work — you need a current one. Passport cards and military IDs follow the same rule. Check the expiration date on the back or front of your ID before you leave for the airport.

A state ID card (not a driver's license) counts as long as it is current and issued by your state's DMV. A school ID, work badge, or credit card does not work, even if it has your photo on it.

Flying without an ID

You can still board a domestic flight if you have no government ID, but you must arrive at the airport earlier than usual — the TSA recommends two hours instead of the standard one hour. At security, tell the officer you have no ID. They will ask you questions to verify your identity: your name, date of birth, address, and the confirmation number from your ticket.

The officer may ask follow-up questions about your travel plans or personal details. This is standard procedure and not a sign of trouble. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes longer than a normal security screening. You will not be turned away for lacking ID, but you may miss your flight if you arrive too close to departure time.

This secondary verification process works the same way whether you have lost your ID, never had one, or your ID is expired. The goal is to confirm you are the person on the ticket.

Getting an ID before you fly

If you have time before your flight, getting a valid ID is faster and less stressful than going through secondary verification at the airport. A state driver's license or ID card takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail in most states, though some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.

A passport card is faster if you already have a passport book — you can renew or add a card to an existing passport in about two weeks. If you have never had a passport, the process takes four to six weeks for a standard process. Some passport acceptance agencies offer expedited service for an extra fee.

A military ID is issued by your branch of service and timelines vary. If you are active duty, reserve, or retired military, contact your ID office to check how long a replacement takes.

TSA PreCheck and Real ID

TSA PreCheck is a paid program that speeds up security screening, but it does not change the ID requirement — you still need a valid government ID to use it. TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85 for five years and lets you go through a faster security line. You must have an acceptable ID to enroll and to use the program.

Real ID is a federal standard that some states have adopted for their driver's licenses and ID cards. A Real ID-compliant license has a star or marking on it. Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA will require a Real ID-compliant driver's license, passport, or passport card for domestic flights. A standard (non-Real ID) driver's license will no longer work after that date. Check your state's DMV website to see if your current license is Real ID-compliant or if you need to renew it.

International flights and other travel documents

A passport or passport card is required for all international flights, regardless of your age. A driver's license alone will not work for travel outside the United States. If you are flying to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, you must have a valid passport or passport card.

Some travelers use a passport card instead of a full passport book. A passport card is smaller and cheaper ($130 versus $165 for a book) but can only be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It does not work for air travel to those destinations — you need a passport book for flights.

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling abroad, a passport is your only acceptable form of ID for re-entry to the United States. No other document will work.

What to do if your ID is lost or stolen

If your driver's license is lost or stolen, contact your state's DMV when ready to report it and request a replacement. Most states can issue a temporary ID or expedited replacement within a few days. Bring proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or passport), proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and a completed process form.

If your passport is lost or stolen, report it to the U.S. State Department's passport office right away. You can explore for a replacement in person at a passport acceptance agency or post office. An expedited replacement takes about two weeks; a standard replacement takes four to six weeks. You will need to bring proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and a new passport photo.

If your flight is in the next few days and you cannot get a replacement ID in time, plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours early and go through secondary verification at security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired ID if I have a new one on the way?

No. The TSA will not accept an expired ID, even if you have proof that a replacement is being mailed to you. You must have a current, valid ID in hand to pass through security. If your new ID has not arrived, use secondary verification at the airport instead.

Do I need a Real ID to fly right now?

Not yet. As of now, a standard driver's license still works for domestic flights. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant driver's license, passport, or passport card. Check your state's DMV website to see if your current license is compliant or if you need to renew it before that date.

Can my child fly with just a birth certificate?

No. Children under 18 do not need ID for domestic flights, but they must travel with an adult. A birth certificate is not an acceptable ID for anyone. If your child is 18 or older, they need a valid government-issued ID.

What if I have a passport card but my flight is international?

A passport card does not work for international air travel. You need a passport book. If you have a passport card, you can explore to add a passport book to your account, which usually takes two to four weeks. If your flight is sooner, you will need to reschedule or explore for expedited service.

Will TSA PreCheck let me skip the ID requirement?

No. TSA PreCheck speeds up security screening, but you still must show a valid government ID to use it. You cannot enroll in TSA PreCheck without an acceptable ID, and you cannot board a flight without one either.